I'll See You at Home, Michele

Michele

1964-2011

When I was with my Dad in June and watched him die, there was a finality that came with being with him. The realness of it all didn't escape me. 

But when someone who is miles away from you dies, it's strangely surreal. I expect the phone to ring and someone to say there's been a mistake. I want to rewind the day and play back a different ending.

I want to scream, "Noooooooo!!"

And as much as I want to do that because I want to hug Michele again and hear her voice, I know that her homecoming this evening is something to rejoice over. And I know that in time, my breaking heart will rest more firmly in that.

She's with Jesus! She's free from all pain and sorrow and cancer and dialysis and steroids and heart attacks and swelling and every other complication that she's suffered these past years. She's free from sin!

But I will miss this bosom buddy of mine. I will miss my Sister-Cuz. I will miss how she cheered me on and endlessly blessed me. 

Oh, she fought the good fight. She finished the race well.

"The Lord has again taken one dear to you all, but much dearer to Himself, to her happy home. While all here are sorrowing, she is rejoicing. She is not far from us. Heaven is very near, nearer than we imagine. All sorrow and pain is over now, and all tears are wiped from her eyes. She is in possession of the mansion prepared for her. Oh, were our faith but stronger, we should never shed a tear for one so dear to Jesus, who had left a world of trial and a body of sin and death for the glorious inheritance. It is true we lose their society for a little while, but you and I, dear friend, shall soon meet again with those we once loved on earth, and enjoy them to all eternity. How should this encourage our hearts, and fill us with holy gratitude to Him who has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. "

~Mary Winslow

Heaven Opened

My cousin treasured each one of you who prayed for her. She was so grateful. Thank you again for your kindness and your encouragement. We serve a mighty God who does us good, all the time. Oh how Jesus knows our sorrows and brings comfort like no other.

I ask for your continued prayers for David and their children and Michele's mom and siblings. Michele was only 47. There's so much her children will experience that she won't be part of. Pray for grace to draw them all closer to Jesus during the difficult days and years to come. May they cling to Him tighter than ever and find in Him complete satisfaction.

With much love and gratitude,